For 268 years, George Frideric Handel’s oratorio “Messiah” has persisted and triumphed, setting the standard for holiday music. With its drama and lyricism, sweeping melodies and mighty choral pieces, “Messiah” is a treasured perennial. Some orchestras have presented “Messiah” annually without interruption for more than a century and a half.

Here’s a look at some local ­offerings:

Baroque

The most historically accurate performance of this crown jewel of Baroque oratorio comes from Nicholas McGegan’s Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, featuring specialists playing on authentic period instruments in local concerts. Soloists in the Philharmonia’s first “Messiah” in a decade are soprano Mary Wilson, countertenor Daniel Taylor, tenor John McVeigh and bass Tyler Duncan. The Philharmonia Baroque Chorale is directed by Bruce Lamott. [7:30 p.m. Friday, Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness Ave., S.F.; $35-$95; www.philharmonia.org; more performances are Saturday and Sunday in Berkeley and Tuesday in Atherton]

Sing-along

A community “Messiah” experience is the singalong format. The San Francisco Sinfonietta and Chorus presents its “Sing it Yourself Messiah”­ ­conducted by Urs Leonhardt Steiner. The holiday music has a fitting setting: Mission Dolores Basilica in The City. [7:30 p.m. Monday, Mission Dolores Basilica, 3321 16th St., S.F.; $15-$30; www.cityboxoffice.com]

Another “Messiah,” actually called “Messyah,” is a contemporary reworking of Handel’s themes and rhythms by the English composer Paul Ayres. This new and surprising work for Handel veterans and neophytes is offered by the Sanford Dole Ensemble. [7 p.m. Dec. 20, San Francisco Conservatory of Music Concert Hall, 50 Oak St., S.F.; $30; www.sde.org]